The reason I posted this thread was because I was starting to think that maybe Does
should be hospitalised overnight after a spay. Mainly due to an apparent increase in frequency of Does on here with post spay complications, some leading to a tragic loss
Whilst I feel reasonably confident with caring for a Doe post spay I remember all too well my first experiences (when with my previous Vet) and not only was I very inexperienced with Rabbits but my then Vet gave me know real information about what was 'normal' for a Doe recovering from a spay.
Sometimes I read on here that Does are being syringe fed within a couple of hours of getting home. Not only is this unnecessary it can also be dangerous as some Vets appear to discharge the Doe before she is fully awake from the GA. Force feeding a Doe who is only semi awake could lead to the Doe aspirating the feed.
Again I think so much depends on how good the individual Vet is. They should take time to explain what the spay proceedure involves and what the care-giver should expect during their Doe's recovery.
I do believe good post surgical analgesia is essential and I fail to see how having to keep stressing a Doe out with repeated return trips to the Vet to have an analgesia administered is in the Does best interest. I believe a supply of 'take home analgesia' should be given with clear advice re the importance of careful monitoring of the Does eating and faecal output. Having very recently nearly lost a Doe totally because of stress from Vets visits and nursing care I have had a 'slap-in-the-face' reminder of how very important minimising stress is for a Rabbit, especially one recovering from a surgical proceedure.
I agree that the home environment is the least stressful place for a Rabbit to recover. But as many Rabbits will normally be 'outdoor Buns' they will still be out of their comfort zone at home as they will have to be kept indoors overnight after the spay. But if they would not be monitored overnight at the Vets then I still think being at home would be best as long as good analgesia has been given and detailed information about post surgical recovery and care explained to the care-giver.
Thanks for replying to my thread RUers :wave: